The Barton County Community College women's team competed this past weekend at the Southwest JUCO hosted by Collin College in Plano, Texas.

Doubles play led the highlighted finishing among some of the top fellow NJCAA teams in the country as the Cougars went 2-2 in tandem action.

The No. 2 duo of Azul Barrios and Malena Hernandez won the third place match 8-3, receiving a first round bye before bouncing back from an 8-1 semifinal match 8-1 to the eventual second place finishers.

Angelina Gnezdilova and Clara Penido rebounded from an 8-3 defeat to the eventual third place finishers to win the consolation 8-4.

In the top singles draw, Gnezdilova battled the eventual champion in the first round, losing 6-4, 6-2, before playing a marathon in the consolation finals trading 6-2 and 5-7 sets before coming up short 18-16 in the tiebreak.

Penido also lost a pair of battles on the weekend, losing 6-2, 7-5 to the eventual No. 2 singles runner-up in the first round before dropping a competitive 6-3, 6-4 in consolation finals.

Hernandez' first No. 3 match came in the semifinals after receiving a bye, losing 6-2, 7-5, before dropping the third place match 6-0, 6-1.

In the No. 4 slot, Barrios' first round 6-0, 6-1 loss to the eventual 3rd place finishers would be the lone on-court singles action in receiving a walk-over win in the consolation finals.

Receiving a bye in the first round of the No. 6 flight, Jacie Roth lost by twin 6-0 scores to the eventual runner-up before taking the same result in the third place match.

The Cougars did not compete in the No. 5 singles nor the No. 3 doubles matches due to an injury withdrawal.

Barton returns to duel action to wind up the regular season, beginning a three-date homestand on Wednesday hosting 4th ranked Cowley College in a 1:00 p.m. first serve at Veteran's Park. The Cougars will then host 5th ranked Seward County Community College on April 18th before getting a final tune-up match April 21st against Ottawa University in preparation of the Region VI Championship.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649600373797.jpeg" alt="No. 2 doubles Azul Barrios and Malena Hernandez-Barton Athletics" />
 <figcaption>No. 2 doubles Azul Barrios and Malena Hernandez-Barton Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton County Community College women's team competed this past weekend at the Southwest JUCO hosted by Collin College in Plano, Texas.Doubles play led the highlighted finishing among some of the top fellow NJCAA teams in the country as the Cougars went 2-2 in tandem action.The No. 2 duo of Azul Barrios and Malena Hernandez won the third place match 8-3, receiving a first round bye before bouncing back from an 8-1 semifinal match 8-1 to the eventual second place finishers.Angelina Gnezdilova and Clara Penido rebounded from an 8-3 defeat to the eventual third place finishers to win the consolation 8-4.In the top singles draw, Gnezdilova battled the eventual champion in the first round, losing 6-4, 6-2, before playing a marathon in the consolation finals trading 6-2 and 5-7 sets before coming up short 18-16 in the tiebreak.Penido also lost a pair of battles on the weekend, losing 6-2, 7-5 to the eventual No. 2 singles runner-up in the first round before dropping a competitive 6-3, 6-4 in consolation finals.Hernandez' first No. 3 match came in the semifinals after receiving a bye, losing 6-2, 7-5, before dropping the third place match 6-0, 6-1.In the No. 4 slot, Barrios' first round 6-0, 6-1 loss to the eventual 3rd place finishers would be the lone on-court singles action in receiving a walk-over win in the consolation finals.Receiving a bye in the first round of the No. 6 flight, Jacie Roth lost by twin 6-0 scores to the eventual runner-up before taking the same result in the third place match.The Cougars did not compete in the No. 5 singles nor the No. 3 doubles matches due to an injury withdrawal.Barton returns to duel action to wind up the regular season, beginning a three-date homestand on Wednesday hosting 4th ranked Cowley College in a 1:00 p.m. first serve at Veteran's Park. The Cougars will then host 5th ranked Seward County Community College on April 18th before getting a final tune-up match April 21st against Ottawa University in preparation of the Region VI Championship.

Tandems lead 11th ranked Barton women's tennis at Southwest JUCO

For the third straight conference tournament of the season, the Barton Community College women's golf team finished runner-up as the Cougars competed this weekend at Fort Scott's Woodland Hills Golf Course.

The Cougars were on the heels of 3rd ranked Dodge City Community College after the first round for the second straight meet, carding a 64-over 352 in trailing by just eight strokes. Saturday's final round produced two teams going opposite directions as Barton added five strokes for a 69-over 352 while the Conquistadors improved seventeen strokes in winning by thirty-eight strokes.

Finals team scores had the Conquistadors at 95-over 671 (344-327), Barton at 133-over 709 (352-357), and Fort Scott Community College in third at 195-over 771 (373-398).

Mathanee Pandee slipped a spot in the final round of the 23-player field, opening with an 82 before sliding to third with an 85 for a 13-over 167. Dodge City's Thitapha Iamtragul won her third straight conference meet with an 11-over 155 (78-77) while teammate Alyssa McMillan improved five strokes to jump into the runner-up spot with a 17-over 161 (83-78).

Tanika Yadilokwong of Dodge City grabbed the 4th spot at 25-over 169 as her second round 83 broke a day one 86 score tie with Pawinee Sukasem. Sukasem's 88 Saturday carding slid to 5th at 30-over 174.

Pornnapa Inmee and Paulina Villavicencio each moved up a spot on the leaderboard, Pornnapa's 38-over 182 (91-91) for 6th place while Villavicencio carded twin 93 rounds for a 7th place tie at 42-over 186.

Haleigh Spray made the largest move up the standings, following a 101 with a 94 to climb five spots in finishing tied for 12th at 51-over 195. Sasha Guinsbourg also made a climb after an opening 104 to have the Cougars' biggest improvement of the final round by shaving off ten strokes for a 94 to move up three spots for a 16th place tie at 54-over 198.

Matilyn Newman tied for 18th at 55-over 199, opening with a 97 but falling six spots with a closing 102. Jalyn Turner rounded out the Cougars entries in 22nd place at 74-over 218 with 106 and 112 rounds.

Barton and the rest of its conference counterparts will have a few weeks away from competition before entering post-season April 25-26 in the Region VI/Plains District Tournament held at Junction City's Rolling Meadows Golf Course.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649600195410.jpeg" alt="Haleigh Spray-Barton Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Haleigh Spray-Barton Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>For the third straight conference tournament of the season, the Barton Community College women's golf team finished runner-up as the Cougars competed this weekend at Fort Scott's Woodland Hills Golf Course.The Cougars were on the heels of 3rd ranked Dodge City Community College after the first round for the second straight meet, carding a 64-over 352 in trailing by just eight strokes. Saturday's final round produced two teams going opposite directions as Barton added five strokes for a 69-over 352 while the Conquistadors improved seventeen strokes in winning by thirty-eight strokes.Finals team scores had the Conquistadors at 95-over 671 (344-327), Barton at 133-over 709 (352-357), and Fort Scott Community College in third at 195-over 771 (373-398).Mathanee Pandee slipped a spot in the final round of the 23-player field, opening with an 82 before sliding to third with an 85 for a 13-over 167. Dodge City's Thitapha Iamtragul won her third straight conference meet with an 11-over 155 (78-77) while teammate Alyssa McMillan improved five strokes to jump into the runner-up spot with a 17-over 161 (83-78).Tanika Yadilokwong of Dodge City grabbed the 4th spot at 25-over 169 as her second round 83 broke a day one 86 score tie with Pawinee Sukasem. Sukasem's 88 Saturday carding slid to 5th at 30-over 174.Pornnapa Inmee and Paulina Villavicencio each moved up a spot on the leaderboard, Pornnapa's 38-over 182 (91-91) for 6th place while Villavicencio carded twin 93 rounds for a 7th place tie at 42-over 186.Haleigh Spray made the largest move up the standings, following a 101 with a 94 to climb five spots in finishing tied for 12th at 51-over 195. Sasha Guinsbourg also made a climb after an opening 104 to have the Cougars' biggest improvement of the final round by shaving off ten strokes for a 94 to move up three spots for a 16th place tie at 54-over 198.Matilyn Newman tied for 18th at 55-over 199, opening with a 97 but falling six spots with a closing 102. Jalyn Turner rounded out the Cougars entries in 22nd place at 74-over 218 with 106 and 112 rounds.Barton and the rest of its conference counterparts will have a few weeks away from competition before entering post-season April 25-26 in the Region VI/Plains District Tournament held at Junction City's Rolling Meadows Golf Course.

11th ranked Barton women's golf runner-up in third conference meet of the season

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Prized rookie Bobby Witt Jr. made an eye-popping play at third base to nail a runner at the plate in the top of the 10th inning, then Adalberto Mondesi’s RBI single in the bottom half lifted the Kansas City Royals over the Cleveland Guardians 1-0 Saturday.

With a runner at third and one out in the Cleveland 10th, Oscar Mercado hit a hard grounder down the line that looked like it might break the scoreless tie.

But the 21-year-old Witt, the top-rated prospect in the majors, skidded onto his knees to make a backhanded stop. All in one motion, he made an off-balance throw home, where All-Star catcher Salvador Perez backhanded the ball on the second hop and made a swipe tag to get Owen Miller.

“(Collin) Snider was throwing that nasty sinker in there, so I knew there was a possibility of the ball coming to me,” Witt said. “I knew they’re going on contact, too.”

“The ball was hit to me and I just threw the ball. I knew I had to get it to Salvy because I knew he was going to make the play on it,” he said.

Kyle Isbel began the bottom half as the automatic runner at second base and moved to third on a single by Hunter Dozier. Mondesi followed with his single to center off Emmanuel Clase (0-1).

“When we started to get going offensively, they made some plays,” Cleveland manager Terry Francona said.

Snider (1-0) pitched one inning in his major league debut. The Royals improved to 2-0 with their second win over the Guardians.

Brad Keller allowed two hits in six innings for Kansas City, striking out five with one walk.

“Brad looked like a different pitcher,” Kansas City Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “...He was so efficient, pounding the zone, getting ahead. That’s everything we were hoping to see. He did a great job handing it off to a bullpen that was so impressive, right down the line, every single one of them.”

Royals relievers Dylan Coleman, Amir Garrett, Taylor Clark, Josh Staumont and Snider combined for four innings of scoreless ball with five strikeouts.

Cleveland starter Zach Plesac pitched 5 2/3 innings and gave up three hits. He fanned three and walked none.

Andrew Benintendi went 3 for 4 and got half of Kansas City’s hits.

Steven Kwan had two of Cleveland’s five hits.

The Guardians have RHP Cody Morris (right back strain) and RHP Carlos Vargas (right elbow rehab) on the injured list.

The series continues on Sunday with Cal Quantrill starting for Cleveland against Kris Bubic.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Prized rookie Bobby Witt Jr. made an eye-popping play at third base to nail a runner at the plate in the top of the 10th inning, then Adalberto Mondesi’s RBI single in the bottom half lifted the Kansas City Royals over the Cleveland Guardians 1-0 Saturday.With a runner at third and one out in the Cleveland 10th, Oscar Mercado hit a hard grounder down the line that looked like it might break the scoreless tie.But the 21-year-old Witt, the top-rated prospect in the majors, skidded onto his knees to make a backhanded stop. All in one motion, he made an off-balance throw home, where All-Star catcher Salvador Perez backhanded the ball on the second hop and made a swipe tag to get Owen Miller.“(Collin) Snider was throwing that nasty sinker in there, so I knew there was a possibility of the ball coming to me,” Witt said. “I knew they’re going on contact, too.”“The ball was hit to me and I just threw the ball. I knew I had to get it to Salvy because I knew he was going to make the play on it,” he said.Kyle Isbel began the bottom half as the automatic runner at second base and moved to third on a single by Hunter Dozier. Mondesi followed with his single to center off Emmanuel Clase (0-1).“When we started to get going offensively, they made some plays,” Cleveland manager Terry Francona said.Snider (1-0) pitched one inning in his major league debut. The Royals improved to 2-0 with their second win over the Guardians.Brad Keller allowed two hits in six innings for Kansas City, striking out five with one walk.“Brad looked like a different pitcher,” Kansas City Royals manager Mike Matheny said. “...He was so efficient, pounding the zone, getting ahead. That’s everything we were hoping to see. He did a great job handing it off to a bullpen that was so impressive, right down the line, every single one of them.”Royals relievers Dylan Coleman, Amir Garrett, Taylor Clark, Josh Staumont and Snider combined for four innings of scoreless ball with five strikeouts.Cleveland starter Zach Plesac pitched 5 2/3 innings and gave up three hits. He fanned three and walked none.Andrew Benintendi went 3 for 4 and got half of Kansas City’s hits.Steven Kwan had two of Cleveland’s five hits.TRAINER’S ROOMThe Guardians have RHP Cody Morris (right back strain) and RHP Carlos Vargas (right elbow rehab) on the injured list.UP NEXTThe series continues on Sunday with Cal Quantrill starting for Cleveland against Kris Bubic.

Witt's dazzling play in 10th helps Royals top Guardians 1-0

Garden City beat the Great Bend Lady Panthers 10-0 Friday in a Western Athletic Conference match played at Cavanaugh Field. The game was originally scheduled for Thursday but was postponed a day due to high winds.

Great Bend is now 2-4 overall and 0-2 in the Western Athletic Conference. Garden City improved to 2-2-1 and 2-0 in WAC play.

The Lady Panthers return to action Monday at Home against Liberal. The Redskins beat Great Bend 8-1 Monday in Liberal.

Garden City beat the Great Bend Lady Panthers 10-0 Friday in a Western Athletic Conference match played at Cavanaugh Field. The game was originally scheduled for Thursday but was postponed a day due to high winds.Great Bend is now 2-4 overall and 0-2 in the Western Athletic Conference. Garden City improved to 2-2-1 and 2-0 in WAC play.The Lady Panthers return to action Monday at Home against Liberal. The Redskins beat Great Bend 8-1 Monday in Liberal.

Garden City beats Lady Panthers 10-0

The Great Bend Panthers continued their strong start to the 2022 season Friday by taking both games of a Western Athletic Conference double header at the Great Bend Sports Complex. The Panthers rallied to take game one 7-4 before dismissing the Redskins 10-1 in game two.

In game one, the Panthers trailed 4-0 entering the sixth inning before exploding for seven runs in the bottom half of the inning.

In game two,&nbsp;Chayse Gruber&nbsp;improved to 3-0 on the season by pitching six innings while striking out 3. Gruber has not allowed an earned run in 15-innings so far this season with 20 strikeouts.

Great Bend improved to 5-1 on the season and 2-0 in WAC competition while Liberal fell to 0-5 and 2-5.

The Panthers will take a five game winning streak into Tuesday's road double header at Hays.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649520561325.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Great Bend Panthers continued their strong start to the 2022 season Friday by taking both games of a Western Athletic Conference double header at the Great Bend Sports Complex. The Panthers rallied to take game one 7-4 before dismissing the Redskins 10-1 in game two.In game one, the Panthers trailed 4-0 entering the sixth inning before exploding for seven runs in the bottom half of the inning.In game two,&nbsp;Chayse Gruber&nbsp;improved to 3-0 on the season by pitching six innings while striking out 3. Gruber has not allowed an earned run in 15-innings so far this season with 20 strikeouts.Great Bend improved to 5-1 on the season and 2-0 in WAC competition while Liberal fell to 0-5 and 2-5.The Panthers will take a five game winning streak into Tuesday's road double header at Hays.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Panther Baseball sweeps Liberal

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Stan Parrish, the 31st head coach in K-State football history who was at the helm of the Wildcat program from 1986 to 1988, passed away Sunday at the age of 75.

Nicknamed "Air Parrish" for his multiple, pass-oriented offensive strategy, Parrish came to Manhattan in 1986 after serving the previous two seasons as the head coach at Marshall.

Parrish's career began at Windham High School in Windham, Ohio, before serving as a graduate assistant for two years at Purdue and one season as an assistant coach at Division III Wabash College in Crawfordsville, Indiana. He quickly took over as head coach of the Little Giants in 1978, putting together a 42-3-1 record over five seasons, which included a perfect 10-0 mark in his final season in 1982.

Following his time at K-State, Parrish worked for six years at Rutgers before serving as the quarterbacks coach at Michigan from 1996 to 2001. While in Ann Arbor, he tutored future NFL quarterbacks Brian Griese and Tom Brady, while he helped the Wolverines win a national championship in 1997.

Parrish moved on to the NFL, serving as the quarterbacks coach for Tampa Bay in 2002 and 2003, helping the Buccaneers win Super Bowl XXXVI. He moved back to the college ranks in 2005 to coach at Ball State, a place he stayed for six seasons, which included the final three years as head coach. His last stint as a football coach came at Eastern Michigan, where he was the offensive coordinator and later the interim head coach in 2013.

Parrish is survived by his wife, the former Ruth Purdy, son Andrew and daughter Libby. He earned his bachelor's degree from Heidelberg in 1969, where he played defensive back from 1965-68.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649419492371.jpeg" alt="Kansas State Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN, Kan. – Stan Parrish, the 31st head coach in K-State football history who was at the helm of the Wildcat program from 1986 to 1988, passed away Sunday at the age of 75.Nicknamed "Air Parrish" for his multiple, pass-oriented offensive strategy, Parrish came to Manhattan in 1986 after serving the previous two seasons as the head coach at Marshall.Parrish's career began at Windham High School in Windham, Ohio, before serving as a graduate assistant for two years at Purdue and one season as an assistant coach at Division III Wabash College in Crawfordsville, Indiana. He quickly took over as head coach of the Little Giants in 1978, putting together a 42-3-1 record over five seasons, which included a perfect 10-0 mark in his final season in 1982.Following his time at K-State, Parrish worked for six years at Rutgers before serving as the quarterbacks coach at Michigan from 1996 to 2001. While in Ann Arbor, he tutored future NFL quarterbacks Brian Griese and Tom Brady, while he helped the Wolverines win a national championship in 1997.Parrish moved on to the NFL, serving as the quarterbacks coach for Tampa Bay in 2002 and 2003, helping the Buccaneers win Super Bowl XXXVI. He moved back to the college ranks in 2005 to coach at Ball State, a place he stayed for six seasons, which included the final three years as head coach. His last stint as a football coach came at Eastern Michigan, where he was the offensive coordinator and later the interim head coach in 2013.Parrish is survived by his wife, the former Ruth Purdy, son Andrew and daughter Libby. He earned his bachelor's degree from Heidelberg in 1969, where he played defensive back from 1965-68.

Former K-State Head Coach Stan Parrish Passes Away

Andrew McCutchen got the first hit of the year, up against the still-dormant ivy at Wrigley Field. He delivered as a National League designated hitter. Wearing a Roberto Clemente No. 21 patch, too.

A little later on opening day, Nico Hoerner hit the first home run of 2022. He connected off a pitcher who used an electronic wristband to receive his signals from the catcher.

Soon after that, in another yard, the Cleveland Guardians took the field for the first time.

New season, and definitely a new look all across Major League Baseball.

And if the weather wasn’t quite summer-like in some spots Thursday, well, who cares?

“It might be cold, it might be windy. But it’s opening day,” Cardinals fan Mary Welsh of Belleville, Illinois, said at Busch Stadium before St. Louis hosted Pittsburgh.

Out near Disneyland, where temperatures neared 100 degrees, AL MVP Shohei Ohtani flashed his 100 mph heat and took his swings for the Los Angeles Angels.

Late night in Phoenix, after Padres starter Yu Darvish threw six no-hit innings, rookie Seth Beer cracked a three-run homer in the ninth to give Arizona a comeback win on National Beer Day in the United States.

In Atlanta, the Braves celebrated their World Series championship with a pregame parade. At every ballpark, umpires started to get their say — this year, they’ve joined referees from other sports in announcing replay review decisions to the crowd.

As seats filled up in rainy Washington, chilly Kansas City and more, it seemed fans decided the 99-day owners’ lockout that delayed spring training and pushed back opening day by a week wouldn’t deter them from coming back.

Wearing an Ernie Banks jersey, 23-year-old Philip Lijewski from Guthrie, Oklahoma, enjoyed the view at Wrigley as the Chicago Cubs and Milwaukee Brewers loosened up. He said the anger and acrimony over the labor strife didn’t dampen his enthusiasm for the game.

“Not really,” Lijewski said. “I’m glad that they came to a conclusion sooner rather than later. I was bummed that we didn’t get to do it April 4. But it’s April 7, so not too many days after.”

More than eight months after announcing a new change, Cleveland played its first regular-season game as the Guardians. Known as the Indians since 1915, the club made the switch in the interest of social justice.

Cleveland wore its road uniforms for the game in Kansas City, with the city name on the jersey.

“Supporting the city is what it comes down to,” star pitcher Shane Bieber said a day before the opener. “Going out there with my teammates, doing it the right way is really all we can do. It was a little bit different getting used to the change, but I’d say we’re all getting used to it day by day.”

Plenty of stars from other sports were at Kauffman Stadium to see top prospect Bobby Witt Jr. and the Royals beat the Guardians 3-1. Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid and several of his players were in attendance, as were members of the Kansas basketball team, which rallied past North Carolina in the men’s NCAA championship game Monday night in New Orleans.

A strong wind made it seem much colder than the game-time temperature of 47 degrees, and intermittent drizzle turned to streaking pellets of ice during the national anthem.

After earlier rainouts at Yankee Stadium and Target Field, the Brewers-Cubs game became the first one of the season.

It was a raw 44 degrees when Chicago right-hander Kyle Hendricks threw the first pitch, which Kolten Wong lofted for a wind-blown popout.

McCutchen sliced a double in the second inning for the season’s first hit, then singled and scored in the fourth for the first run. The 2013 NL MVP, the 35-year-old McCutchen was Milwaukee’s designated hitter.

As part of the MLB labor deal, the National League has now permanently adopted the designated hitter — the American League began using it in 1973, and the NL added it for the pandemic-shortened 2020 season before going back to letting pitchers hit last year.

Before the Cubs batted in the bottom of the third, the videoboard in left field showed a clip dedicated to pitchers hitting with Sarah McLachlan’s “I Will Remember You” serving as the soundtrack.

“Thank you pitchers. See you in a pinch,” it said at the end.

McCutchen is among several active Roberto Clemente Award winners who will wear No. 21 — the number worn by the late Pirates Hall of Famer — on the backs of their hats and helmets for the rest of their careers.

MLB said it was a “special tribute to his enduring legacy.” The announcement was timed for the 50th anniversary of the year in which Clemente, the Pittsburgh great from Puerto Rico, died in a plane crash while on a humanitarian relief effort.

“It’s a privilege. An honor,” said Nationals slugger Nelson Cruz, the most recipient of the Clemente award. “He means so much for baseball, in general. He was an example to follow – how to be professional, on and off the field. A remarkable player and a remarkable human being who lost his life trying to help others.”

“He paid the ultimate price, and whatever we do is not enough,” he said.

Hoerner launched the first homer, a two-run drive for the Cubs off NL Cy Young Award winner Corbin Burnes. Brewers catcher Omar Narváez and Burnes used the newly approved electronic pitch calling system — Narváez could push a button on his wristband to signal what he wanted thrown, without fear of wiggling his fingers and having the sign stolen.

Not that Hoerner needed any help, apparently.

“Who had Nico in the first homer pool?” Cubs manager David Ross kidded after the 5-4 win.

In St. Louis, Tommy Edman’s drive became the first play that resulted in an umpire announcing the result of a replay check.

“After review, the call is confirmed. Home run,” crew chief Jim Reynolds succinctly told the gleeful Cardinals crowd.

Andrew McCutchen got the first hit of the year, up against the still-dormant ivy at Wrigley Field. He delivered as a National League designated hitter. Wearing a Roberto Clemente No. 21 patch, too.A little later on opening day, Nico Hoerner hit the first home run of 2022. He connected off a pitcher who used an electronic wristband to receive his signals from the catcher.Soon after that, in another yard, the Cleveland Guardians took the field for the first time.New season, and definitely a new look all across Major League Baseball.And if the weather wasn’t quite summer-like in some spots Thursday, well, who cares?“It might be cold, it might be windy. But it’s opening day,” Cardinals fan Mary Welsh of Belleville, Illinois, said at Busch Stadium before St. Louis hosted Pittsburgh.Out near Disneyland, where temperatures neared 100 degrees, AL MVP Shohei Ohtani flashed his 100 mph heat and took his swings for the Los Angeles Angels.Late night in Phoenix, after Padres starter Yu Darvish threw six no-hit innings, rookie Seth Beer cracked a three-run homer in the ninth to give Arizona a comeback win on National Beer Day in the United States.No joke.In Atlanta, the Braves celebrated their World Series championship with a pregame parade. At every ballpark, umpires started to get their say — this year, they’ve joined referees from other sports in announcing replay review decisions to the crowd.As seats filled up in rainy Washington, chilly Kansas City and more, it seemed fans decided the 99-day owners’ lockout that delayed spring training and pushed back opening day by a week wouldn’t deter them from coming back.Wearing an Ernie Banks jersey, 23-year-old Philip Lijewski from Guthrie, Oklahoma, enjoyed the view at Wrigley as the Chicago Cubs and Milwaukee Brewers loosened up. He said the anger and acrimony over the labor strife didn’t dampen his enthusiasm for the game.“Not really,” Lijewski said. “I’m glad that they came to a conclusion sooner rather than later. I was bummed that we didn’t get to do it April 4. But it’s April 7, so not too many days after.”More than eight months after announcing a new change, Cleveland played its first regular-season game as the Guardians. Known as the Indians since 1915, the club made the switch in the interest of social justice.Cleveland wore its road uniforms for the game in Kansas City, with the city name on the jersey.“Supporting the city is what it comes down to,” star pitcher Shane Bieber said a day before the opener. “Going out there with my teammates, doing it the right way is really all we can do. It was a little bit different getting used to the change, but I’d say we’re all getting used to it day by day.”Plenty of stars from other sports were at Kauffman Stadium to see top prospect Bobby Witt Jr. and the Royals beat the Guardians 3-1. Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid and several of his players were in attendance, as were members of the Kansas basketball team, which rallied past North Carolina in the men’s NCAA championship game Monday night in New Orleans.A strong wind made it seem much colder than the game-time temperature of 47 degrees, and intermittent drizzle turned to streaking pellets of ice during the national anthem.After earlier rainouts at Yankee Stadium and Target Field, the Brewers-Cubs game became the first one of the season.It was a raw 44 degrees when Chicago right-hander Kyle Hendricks threw the first pitch, which Kolten Wong lofted for a wind-blown popout.McCutchen sliced a double in the second inning for the season’s first hit, then singled and scored in the fourth for the first run. The 2013 NL MVP, the 35-year-old McCutchen was Milwaukee’s designated hitter.As part of the MLB labor deal, the National League has now permanently adopted the designated hitter — the American League began using it in 1973, and the NL added it for the pandemic-shortened 2020 season before going back to letting pitchers hit last year.Before the Cubs batted in the bottom of the third, the videoboard in left field showed a clip dedicated to pitchers hitting with Sarah McLachlan’s “I Will Remember You” serving as the soundtrack.“Thank you pitchers. See you in a pinch,” it said at the end.McCutchen is among several active Roberto Clemente Award winners who will wear No. 21 — the number worn by the late Pirates Hall of Famer — on the backs of their hats and helmets for the rest of their careers.MLB said it was a “special tribute to his enduring legacy.” The announcement was timed for the 50th anniversary of the year in which Clemente, the Pittsburgh great from Puerto Rico, died in a plane crash while on a humanitarian relief effort.“It’s a privilege. An honor,” said Nationals slugger Nelson Cruz, the most recipient of the Clemente award. “He means so much for baseball, in general. He was an example to follow – how to be professional, on and off the field. A remarkable player and a remarkable human being who lost his life trying to help others.”“He paid the ultimate price, and whatever we do is not enough,” he said.Hoerner launched the first homer, a two-run drive for the Cubs off NL Cy Young Award winner Corbin Burnes. Brewers catcher Omar Narváez and Burnes used the newly approved electronic pitch calling system — Narváez could push a button on his wristband to signal what he wanted thrown, without fear of wiggling his fingers and having the sign stolen.Not that Hoerner needed any help, apparently.“Who had Nico in the first homer pool?” Cubs manager David Ross kidded after the 5-4 win.In St. Louis, Tommy Edman’s drive became the first play that resulted in an umpire announcing the result of a replay check.“After review, the call is confirmed. Home run,” crew chief Jim Reynolds succinctly told the gleeful Cardinals crowd.

Opening Day in MLB: New No. 21 patches, NL DHs and Guardians

The Barton Community College baseball team picked up a key conference sweep Thursday at Lawson-Biggs Field taking the first leg of the series against Hutchinson Community College.

Zach Thornton struck out a career high thirteen in going the distance of the opening 4-2 win with the Cougars producing thirteen hits powered by Alex Rodgers' 4-for-4 performance in an 11-6 victory.

Barton's 9th straight win improves the Cougars to 14-4 in conference play and 25-9 overall while Hutchinson sees their nine win streak end, dropping to 8-6 in league and 18-14 on the season. The teams switch locations on Saturday for the backend of the series to Hutchinson's Hobart-Detter Field for a 1:00 p.m. pitch for the doubleheader.

Rodgers, the reigning KJCCC Player of the Week, led the offense going 6-of-8 from the plate while driving in four runs out of the leadoff spot. Batting behind Rodgers, Ricardo Sanchez stayed hot on the year going 4-of-6 in driving in a team high five runs in the doubleheader. Jace Stewart and Joel Nieves help set up the top of the lineup RBI opportunities going a combined 5-of-10 out of the No. 8 and No. 9 spots.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649417284257.jpeg" alt="Barton Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Barton Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton Community College baseball team picked up a key conference sweep Thursday at Lawson-Biggs Field taking the first leg of the series against Hutchinson Community College.Zach Thornton struck out a career high thirteen in going the distance of the opening 4-2 win with the Cougars producing thirteen hits powered by Alex Rodgers' 4-for-4 performance in an 11-6 victory.Barton's 9th straight win improves the Cougars to 14-4 in conference play and 25-9 overall while Hutchinson sees their nine win streak end, dropping to 8-6 in league and 18-14 on the season. The teams switch locations on Saturday for the backend of the series to Hutchinson's Hobart-Detter Field for a 1:00 p.m. pitch for the doubleheader.Rodgers, the reigning KJCCC Player of the Week, led the offense going 6-of-8 from the plate while driving in four runs out of the leadoff spot. Batting behind Rodgers, Ricardo Sanchez stayed hot on the year going 4-of-6 in driving in a team high five runs in the doubleheader. Jace Stewart and Joel Nieves help set up the top of the lineup RBI opportunities going a combined 5-of-10 out of the No. 8 and No. 9 spots.

Cougars take two from Hutch in big Jayhawk West series

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. searched the crowd for his family before his highly anticipated big league debut Thursday, finally spotting them in the sea of Kansas City Royals fans that had bundled up for a blustery opening day.

“I don’t know if they were even paying attention to me,” Witt admitted later.

Everyone was paying attention to him by the end.

After going hitless in his first three at-bats, Witt roped a double down the left-field line with two outs in the eighth inning, spurring the Royals to a 3-1 victory over the rechristened Cleveland Guardians.

“You couldn’t have scripted that any better,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said with a grin. “This isn’t one he’s going to forget, and I probably won’t, either.”

In a matchup of former Cy Young Award winners, Cleveland ace Shane Bieber and erstwhile Royals star Zach Greinke dueled to a 1-all stalemate before turning the game over to the bullpens on a cold day at Kauffman Stadium.

It remained tied until the eighth, when the Royals’ Michael Taylor worked a walk off Triston McKenzie (0-1) and then took second on Nicky Lopez’s sacrifice bunt. McKenzie struck out Whit Merrifield before Witt, regarded by many as the No. 1 prospect in the game, doubled down the left-field line to give Kansas City its first lead.

“I could kind of see it coming a little bit with the way the game was going,” said Greinke, who signed a one-year deal to return to the club that drafted him 20 years ago. “It felt like it was going to be a special day.”

Andrew Benintendi drove in Witt, giving Royals reliever Scott Barlow (1-0) a cushion. And after a perfect eighth, Barlow struck out Myles Straw with runners on the corners in the ninth to end it.

Lopez also drove in a run for Kansas City, while Jose Ramirez had an RBI double for the Guardians a day after agreeing to a $124 million, five-year deal to stay with Cleveland through what could be the end of his career.

Plenty of famous fans braved wintry weather to enjoy opening day.

Several members of the Kansas City Chiefs, including coach Andy Reid, dressed up in Royals gear. So did members of the Kansas basketball team, which beat North Carolina in the national title game Monday night in New Orleans.

It was 47 degrees at first pitch, and a gale blowing out to right field made if seem even colder. Then there was the off-and-on drizzle that turned to shooting pellets of ice during the national anthem, which probably made everybody stuck wearing a jersey long for the sun and warmth of Arizona spring training.

“The weather was not fun for anybody,” Guardians manager Terry Francona said.

Greinke didn’t seem to mind. He wore short sleeves for his first start in a Kansas City uniform since Sept. 30, 2010.

He didn’t have the same dominant fastball that he had in 2009, when he won the Cy Young, but he made up for it with the wisdom of 18 years in the big leagues — and a beguiling 69 mph curveball. Greinke made it through 5 2/3 innings, allowing one run on five hits and a walk while striking out one, then got a standing ovation from the crowd.

“He just knows how to pitch,” Francona said.

Bieber, whose Cy Young came 11 years after Greinke won his, was nearly as good. He allowed one run on three hits in 4 2/3 innings for Cleveland, which played with a new name for the first time since 1915.

Both of the staff aces were gone by the time Witt came to bat in the eighth inning, though. They were reduced to fans just like everyone else, watching in rapt attention as one of the game’s bright young stars stepped to the plate.

“I was going nuts. I jumped over the (dugout) railing,” Lopez said. “He’s ready for this moment. The Royals know he’s ready for this moment. We all know he’s ready for this moment.”

The Royals honored longtime scout Art Stewart, who spent 69 years in professional baseball, with members of his family throwing out first pitches to George Brett and Mike Sweeney. Stewart died in November at the age of 94.

The Guardians announced their $20 million, five-year contract with closer Emmanuel Clase, which was agreed to over the weekend. They have yet to announce their deal with Ramirez because several details are still being finalized.

The Guardians placed OF Josh Naylor on the injured list as he works his way back from a fractured leg. C Luke Maile (right hamstring strain) and right-hander James Karinchak (back strained) joined him there.

After taking Friday off, the series resumes Saturday with Cleveland RHP Zach Plesac against Royals RHP Brad Keller.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Bobby Witt Jr. searched the crowd for his family before his highly anticipated big league debut Thursday, finally spotting them in the sea of Kansas City Royals fans that had bundled up for a blustery opening day.“I don’t know if they were even paying attention to me,” Witt admitted later.Everyone was paying attention to him by the end.After going hitless in his first three at-bats, Witt roped a double down the left-field line with two outs in the eighth inning, spurring the Royals to a 3-1 victory over the rechristened Cleveland Guardians.“You couldn’t have scripted that any better,” Royals manager Mike Matheny said with a grin. “This isn’t one he’s going to forget, and I probably won’t, either.”In a matchup of former Cy Young Award winners, Cleveland ace Shane Bieber and erstwhile Royals star Zach Greinke dueled to a 1-all stalemate before turning the game over to the bullpens on a cold day at Kauffman Stadium.It remained tied until the eighth, when the Royals’ Michael Taylor worked a walk off Triston McKenzie (0-1) and then took second on Nicky Lopez’s sacrifice bunt. McKenzie struck out Whit Merrifield before Witt, regarded by many as the No. 1 prospect in the game, doubled down the left-field line to give Kansas City its first lead.“I could kind of see it coming a little bit with the way the game was going,” said Greinke, who signed a one-year deal to return to the club that drafted him 20 years ago. “It felt like it was going to be a special day.”Andrew Benintendi drove in Witt, giving Royals reliever Scott Barlow (1-0) a cushion. And after a perfect eighth, Barlow struck out Myles Straw with runners on the corners in the ninth to end it.Lopez also drove in a run for Kansas City, while Jose Ramirez had an RBI double for the Guardians a day after agreeing to a $124 million, five-year deal to stay with Cleveland through what could be the end of his career.Plenty of famous fans braved wintry weather to enjoy opening day.Several members of the Kansas City Chiefs, including coach Andy Reid, dressed up in Royals gear. So did members of the Kansas basketball team, which beat North Carolina in the national title game Monday night in New Orleans.It was 47 degrees at first pitch, and a gale blowing out to right field made if seem even colder. Then there was the off-and-on drizzle that turned to shooting pellets of ice during the national anthem, which probably made everybody stuck wearing a jersey long for the sun and warmth of Arizona spring training.“The weather was not fun for anybody,” Guardians manager Terry Francona said.Greinke didn’t seem to mind. He wore short sleeves for his first start in a Kansas City uniform since Sept. 30, 2010.He didn’t have the same dominant fastball that he had in 2009, when he won the Cy Young, but he made up for it with the wisdom of 18 years in the big leagues — and a beguiling 69 mph curveball. Greinke made it through 5 2/3 innings, allowing one run on five hits and a walk while striking out one, then got a standing ovation from the crowd.“He just knows how to pitch,” Francona said.Bieber, whose Cy Young came 11 years after Greinke won his, was nearly as good. He allowed one run on three hits in 4 2/3 innings for Cleveland, which played with a new name for the first time since 1915.Both of the staff aces were gone by the time Witt came to bat in the eighth inning, though. They were reduced to fans just like everyone else, watching in rapt attention as one of the game’s bright young stars stepped to the plate.“I was going nuts. I jumped over the (dugout) railing,” Lopez said. “He’s ready for this moment. The Royals know he’s ready for this moment. We all know he’s ready for this moment.”HONORING ARTThe Royals honored longtime scout Art Stewart, who spent 69 years in professional baseball, with members of his family throwing out first pitches to George Brett and Mike Sweeney. Stewart died in November at the age of 94.MONEY BALLERSThe Guardians announced their $20 million, five-year contract with closer Emmanuel Clase, which was agreed to over the weekend. They have yet to announce their deal with Ramirez because several details are still being finalized.TRAINER’S ROOMThe Guardians placed OF Josh Naylor on the injured list as he works his way back from a fractured leg. C Luke Maile (right hamstring strain) and right-hander James Karinchak (back strained) joined him there.UP NEXTAfter taking Friday off, the series resumes Saturday with Cleveland RHP Zach Plesac against Royals RHP Brad Keller.

Witt a debut! Royals rookie stars in 3-1 win over Guardians

During the past 15 years, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) has initiated several programs that have made a significant impact on education-based activity programs across the country.

The NFHS Coach Education Program was started in 2007. With its expansion to students, parents, administrators, officials, music directors and adjudicators, and others, the NFHS Learning Center has now delivered more than 15 million courses online through its website at www.NFHSLearn.com. About 90 courses are now available, including more than 60 that are free, and the Concussion in Sports course has been taken by more than six million individuals.  

In 2013, the NFHS Network was started as a first-of-its-kind, all-digital high school network providing live coverage of high school events at www.NFHSNetwork.com. In its ninth year of providing coverage of high school sports, performing arts and other activities, more than 500,000 events and more than 30,000 post-season events will be covered. Through its ever-increasing coverage, the NFHS Network has become the largest destination for high school sports broadcasts in the country.

These two ventures, as well as expanding services and programs for students involved in the performing arts programs, have been developed during the 102-year history of the NFHS to assist schools and state associations; however, none have been more enduring and important than the chief task of the organization since its formation in 1920 – writing playing rules for high school sports.

The NFHS began its role as the rules-writing body for high school sports in the early 1930s with the first high school rules for football, followed by basketball and track and field. Today, the NFHS writes playing rules in 17 sports for boys and girls.

During the past few months, the annual rules-writing process began as rules committees in the sports of football, volleyball, field hockey, soccer, swimming and diving, and spirit met to discuss the state of those sports and any potential rules changes for the coming season. In addition, the NFHS writes playing rules in the sports of baseball, basketball, cross country, girls gymnastics, ice hockey, boys lacrosse, girls lacrosse, softball, track and field, water polo, and wrestling.

This year, as has been the case since the NFHS became involved in this important task, the rules-writing process is being conducted with a three-pronged focus: 1) minimize the risk of injury, 2) maintain sound traditions of the sport, and 3) encourage sportsmanship.

With almost eight million participants in high school sports, NFHS rules are written for more individuals than all other levels of sports combined. As a result, risk minimization and the fundamentals of good sportsmanship are paramount to the rules-writing process for the NFHS and often are the distinguishing factors from rules at the higher levels of the sport.

Perhaps football is the best example of the commitment to risk minimization. In the mid-1970s, the NFHS was at the forefront of change when it outlawed spearing in high school football. The 1976 rule revision changed the landscape of high school football from an injury standpoint – from a high of 36 direct fatalities in 1968 to an average of about two per year by 2018.

Some people have questioned why there are multiple rules codes for a sport. Very simply, NFHS rules for high school play must be different than at the college and professional levels.

As an example, while professional baseball is concerned with how fast a baseball exits the batter’s box (Velocity Exit Speed) and how far the ball travels on a home run, the NFHS has enacted bat standards during the past 20 years to reduce the speed of balls coming off aluminum bats. In wrestling, the NFHS has enacted strict weight-management plans to reduce the risk of health issues. In football, NFHS rules do not permit the excessive celebration displays following touchdowns that occur during NFL games.  

In addition to risk minimization and sportsmanship, the NFHS must also weigh financial implications for schools when considering equipment and uniform changes. With schools ranging in size from less than 100 to more than 5,000 students, decisions must be made for the masses and cannot put undue financial hardships on schools.

NFHS rules are also written with the understanding that appropriate behavior begins with the coach, who is responsible for ensuring that his or her team exhibits good sporting behavior. Many penalties for unsportsmanlike conduct on the team are first directed against the coach.

Now in its 90th year of writing playing rules for high school sports, the NFHS continues in its devotion to minimizing risk of injury, sportsmanship and maintaining the sound traditions of the sport.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649332246684.jpeg" alt="Dr. Karissa L. Niehoff is in her fourth year as chief executive officer of the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) in Indianapolis, Indiana." />
 <figcaption>Dr. Karissa L. Niehoff is in her fourth year as chief executive officer of the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) in Indianapolis, Indiana.</figcaption>
 </figure>During the past 15 years, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) has initiated several programs that have made a significant impact on education-based activity programs across the country.The NFHS Coach Education Program was started in 2007. With its expansion to students, parents, administrators, officials, music directors and adjudicators, and others, the NFHS Learning Center has now delivered more than 15 million courses online through its website at www.NFHSLearn.com. About 90 courses are now available, including more than 60 that are free, and the Concussion in Sports course has been taken by more than six million individuals. In 2013, the NFHS Network was started as a first-of-its-kind, all-digital high school network providing live coverage of high school events at www.NFHSNetwork.com. In its ninth year of providing coverage of high school sports, performing arts and other activities, more than 500,000 events and more than 30,000 post-season events will be covered. Through its ever-increasing coverage, the NFHS Network has become the largest destination for high school sports broadcasts in the country.These two ventures, as well as expanding services and programs for students involved in the performing arts programs, have been developed during the 102-year history of the NFHS to assist schools and state associations; however, none have been more enduring and important than the chief task of the organization since its formation in 1920 – writing playing rules for high school sports.The NFHS began its role as the rules-writing body for high school sports in the early 1930s with the first high school rules for football, followed by basketball and track and field. Today, the NFHS writes playing rules in 17 sports for boys and girls.During the past few months, the annual rules-writing process began as rules committees in the sports of football, volleyball, field hockey, soccer, swimming and diving, and spirit met to discuss the state of those sports and any potential rules changes for the coming season. In addition, the NFHS writes playing rules in the sports of baseball, basketball, cross country, girls gymnastics, ice hockey, boys lacrosse, girls lacrosse, softball, track and field, water polo, and wrestling.This year, as has been the case since the NFHS became involved in this important task, the rules-writing process is being conducted with a three-pronged focus: 1) minimize the risk of injury, 2) maintain sound traditions of the sport, and 3) encourage sportsmanship.With almost eight million participants in high school sports, NFHS rules are written for more individuals than all other levels of sports combined. As a result, risk minimization and the fundamentals of good sportsmanship are paramount to the rules-writing process for the NFHS and often are the distinguishing factors from rules at the higher levels of the sport.Perhaps football is the best example of the commitment to risk minimization. In the mid-1970s, the NFHS was at the forefront of change when it outlawed spearing in high school football. The 1976 rule revision changed the landscape of high school football from an injury standpoint – from a high of 36 direct fatalities in 1968 to an average of about two per year by 2018.Some people have questioned why there are multiple rules codes for a sport. Very simply, NFHS rules for high school play must be different than at the college and professional levels.As an example, while professional baseball is concerned with how fast a baseball exits the batter’s box (Velocity Exit Speed) and how far the ball travels on a home run, the NFHS has enacted bat standards during the past 20 years to reduce the speed of balls coming off aluminum bats. In wrestling, the NFHS has enacted strict weight-management plans to reduce the risk of health issues. In football, NFHS rules do not permit the excessive celebration displays following touchdowns that occur during NFL games. In addition to risk minimization and sportsmanship, the NFHS must also weigh financial implications for schools when considering equipment and uniform changes. With schools ranging in size from less than 100 to more than 5,000 students, decisions must be made for the masses and cannot put undue financial hardships on schools.NFHS rules are also written with the understanding that appropriate behavior begins with the coach, who is responsible for ensuring that his or her team exhibits good sporting behavior. Many penalties for unsportsmanlike conduct on the team are first directed against the coach.Now in its 90th year of writing playing rules for high school sports, the NFHS continues in its devotion to minimizing risk of injury, sportsmanship and maintaining the sound traditions of the sport.

NFHS Rules-Writing Task Continues with Focus on Sportsmanship, Minimizing Risk

The Barton Community College softball team pounded out 41 hits in the minimum ten innings Wednesday at Lemon Park in a 17-3 and 21-0 conference sweep at Pratt Community College.

The third place Cougars improve to 14-8 in conference and 20-14 overall while dropping Pratt to 1-21 and 2-25 on the year. Barton will put its four game win streak to the test at 1:00 p.m. Saturday traveling to nationally receiving votes Hutchinson (17-3, 26-6) as the Blue Dragons are coming off a doubleheader split against 6th ranked Butler.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649332137096.jpeg" alt="Barton Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Barton Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton Community College softball team pounded out 41 hits in the minimum ten innings Wednesday at Lemon Park in a 17-3 and 21-0 conference sweep at Pratt Community College.The third place Cougars improve to 14-8 in conference and 20-14 overall while dropping Pratt to 1-21 and 2-25 on the year. Barton will put its four game win streak to the test at 1:00 p.m. Saturday traveling to nationally receiving votes Hutchinson (17-3, 26-6) as the Blue Dragons are coming off a doubleheader split against 6th ranked Butler.

Lady Cougars roll to double header sweep at Pratt

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — All-Star outfielder Whit Merrifield and the Kansas City Royals agreed to a restructured contract late Wednesday in which the club exercised its option for next season and the two sides added a mutual option for 2024.

Merrifield, who made his second All-Star team last season, will earn $7 million this season and $2.75 million in 2023, a figure that would escalate by $4 million if he spends 109 days or fewer on the injured list this season. The mutual option is for $18 million with a $500,000 buyout.

The 33-year-old Merrifield hit .277 with an American League-leading 40 stolen bases and 42 doubles last season, becoming the first player since Charlie Gehringer in 1929 to lead the AL in both categories. Merrifield also had 40-plus doubles and 40-plus steals in 2018, making him one of seven players in big league history with at least two such seasons.

Merrifield’s value to the Royals is more than just his bat and baserunning ability. One of baseball’s most versatile players, Merrifield is also capable of playing first base, second base and third base along with all three outfield positions.

The growth of second baseman Nicky Lopez last season, and the arrival of top prospect Bobby Witt Jr. at third base this season, means Merrifield will play mostly in the outfield again. That is where he’ll start Thursday’s opener against Cleveland, extending his club record — and the longest active streak in the majors — to 470 consecutive games played.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — All-Star outfielder Whit Merrifield and the Kansas City Royals agreed to a restructured contract late Wednesday in which the club exercised its option for next season and the two sides added a mutual option for 2024.Merrifield, who made his second All-Star team last season, will earn $7 million this season and $2.75 million in 2023, a figure that would escalate by $4 million if he spends 109 days or fewer on the injured list this season. The mutual option is for $18 million with a $500,000 buyout.The 33-year-old Merrifield hit .277 with an American League-leading 40 stolen bases and 42 doubles last season, becoming the first player since Charlie Gehringer in 1929 to lead the AL in both categories. Merrifield also had 40-plus doubles and 40-plus steals in 2018, making him one of seven players in big league history with at least two such seasons.Merrifield’s value to the Royals is more than just his bat and baserunning ability. One of baseball’s most versatile players, Merrifield is also capable of playing first base, second base and third base along with all three outfield positions.The growth of second baseman Nicky Lopez last season, and the arrival of top prospect Bobby Witt Jr. at third base this season, means Merrifield will play mostly in the outfield again. That is where he’ll start Thursday’s opener against Cleveland, extending his club record — and the longest active streak in the majors — to 470 consecutive games played.

Royals agree with All-Star Merrifield on restructured deal

LAWRENCE, Kan. – Fresh off its sixth national championship in program history, Kansas Men’s Basketball will host a championship parade on Sunday, April 10 at 2 p.m., presented by FNBO. The parade route will proceed south on Mass Street beginning on 6th St. and finish at 19th.

Featuring the Kansas Spirit Squad, band, and of course, the national championship-winning basketball team, the parade will begin on 6th street at 2 p.m., with the team being escorted down Mass Street in multiple vehicles.

Mass Street will be closed downtown from 3 a.m. to roughly two hours after the parade ends on Sunday to accommodate the championship parade.

Beginning at 11 a.m. on Sunday, fans can park on campus in Lot 90, the Burge Union and the Computer Center to catch shuttles downtown for the parade. Shuttles will run up to an hour post parade. 

Additional parade support will be provided by Adidas.

The parade is part of “Wave the Wheat Weekend” in Lawrence, which kicks off Friday night with both baseball and softball in action at 6 p.m., with baseball taking on Illinois State and softball battling Baylor. 

On Saturday, the FNSA Powwow and Indigenous Cultures Festival at The Lied Center is set for 9 a.m., with the Grand Entry #1 planned for noon, while the Kansas Football Spring Preview is scheduled for 1 p.m., at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium. Softball and baseball will also be in action at their respective home parks on Saturday at 2 p.m and then again on Sunday, with softball set for noon and baseball playing at 1 p.m.

LAWRENCE, Kan. – Fresh off its sixth national championship in program history, Kansas Men’s Basketball will host a championship parade on Sunday, April 10 at 2 p.m., presented by FNBO. The parade route will proceed south on Mass Street beginning on 6th St. and finish at 19th.Featuring the Kansas Spirit Squad, band, and of course, the national championship-winning basketball team, the parade will begin on 6th street at 2 p.m., with the team being escorted down Mass Street in multiple vehicles.Mass Street will be closed downtown from 3 a.m. to roughly two hours after the parade ends on Sunday to accommodate the championship parade.Beginning at 11 a.m. on Sunday, fans can park on campus in Lot 90, the Burge Union and the Computer Center to catch shuttles downtown for the parade. Shuttles will run up to an hour post parade. Additional parade support will be provided by Adidas.The parade is part of “Wave the Wheat Weekend” in Lawrence, which kicks off Friday night with both baseball and softball in action at 6 p.m., with baseball taking on Illinois State and softball battling Baylor. On Saturday, the FNSA Powwow and Indigenous Cultures Festival at The Lied Center is set for 9 a.m., with the Grand Entry #1 planned for noon, while the Kansas Football Spring Preview is scheduled for 1 p.m., at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium. Softball and baseball will also be in action at their respective home parks on Saturday at 2 p.m and then again on Sunday, with softball set for noon and baseball playing at 1 p.m.Kansas Athletics

Kansas Men’s Basketball to Host Championship Parade at 2 p.m. Sunday

Cleveland Guardians vs. Kansas City Royals

Kansas City, Missouri; Thursday, 4:10 p.m. EDT

PITCHING PROBABLES: Guardians: Shane Bieber (0-0); Royals: Zack Greinke (0-0)

BOTTOM LINE: The Kansas City Royals begin the season at home against the Cleveland Guardians.

Kansas City went 74-88 overall and 39-42 in home games a season ago. The Royals slugged .396 with a .702 OPS as a team in the 2021 season.

Cleveland had an 80-82 record overall and a 40-41 record on the road last season. The Guardians pitching staff had a collective 4.34 ERA while averaging 8.9 strikeouts per nine innings in the 2021 season.

Royals: Tyler Zuber: 60-Day IL (shoulder)

Guardians: Carlos Vargas: 60-Day IL (undisclosed), Cody Morris: 60-Day IL (shoulder)

Cleveland Guardians vs. Kansas City RoyalsKansas City, Missouri; Thursday, 4:10 p.m. EDTPITCHING PROBABLES: Guardians: Shane Bieber (0-0); Royals: Zack Greinke (0-0)BOTTOM LINE: The Kansas City Royals begin the season at home against the Cleveland Guardians.Kansas City went 74-88 overall and 39-42 in home games a season ago. The Royals slugged .396 with a .702 OPS as a team in the 2021 season.Cleveland had an 80-82 record overall and a 40-41 record on the road last season. The Guardians pitching staff had a collective 4.34 ERA while averaging 8.9 strikeouts per nine innings in the 2021 season.INJURIES: Royals: Tyler Zuber: 60-Day IL (shoulder)Guardians: Carlos Vargas: 60-Day IL (undisclosed), Cody Morris: 60-Day IL (shoulder)

Guardians visit the Royals for season opener

Alex Rodgers of the Barton Community College baseball team has been tabbed as the week eighth KJCCC Division I Player of the Week.

Rodgers led the top of the lineup this past week with a .565 batting average and 1.329 on-base percentage helping the Cougars to a 6-0 week. Rodgers' pounded out multi-hits in five of his six games collecting 13 knocks of which three for extra bases, driving in three and drawing five walks.

The freshman was a major threat on the base-paths crossing the plate 15 times and swiping nine bags in 10-attempts including a game high four in the Cougars 25-15 win at Garden City.

Rodgers currently sits atop the Region leaderboard with 56 runs scored and 30 stolen bases on the season. 

The award is Rodgers first of the season and his second of his career.

Rogers and the Cougars will return to Lawson-Biggs Field on Thursday in hosting the first leg of  the weekend four pack against the Blue Dragons of Hutchinson Community College with first pitch slated for 1:00 p.m.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649276650354.jpeg" alt="Barton Athletics" />
 <figcaption>Barton Athletics</figcaption>
 </figure>Alex Rodgers of the Barton Community College baseball team has been tabbed as the week eighth KJCCC Division I Player of the Week.Rodgers led the top of the lineup this past week with a .565 batting average and 1.329 on-base percentage helping the Cougars to a 6-0 week. Rodgers' pounded out multi-hits in five of his six games collecting 13 knocks of which three for extra bases, driving in three and drawing five walks.The freshman was a major threat on the base-paths crossing the plate 15 times and swiping nine bags in 10-attempts including a game high four in the Cougars 25-15 win at Garden City.Rodgers currently sits atop the Region leaderboard with 56 runs scored and 30 stolen bases on the season. The award is Rodgers first of the season and his second of his career.Rogers and the Cougars will return to Lawson-Biggs Field on Thursday in hosting the first leg of the weekend four pack against the Blue Dragons of Hutchinson Community College with first pitch slated for 1:00 p.m.

Rodgers snags Week 8 KJCCC Player of the Week

NEW YORK (AP) — In a move that ends a tradition dating more than 150 years, Major League Baseball approved the use of an electronic device for catchers to signal pitches in an effort to eliminate sign stealing and speed games.

Since the beginning of baseball in the 19th century, catchers had used their fingers to signal the type of pitch and its intended location.

As video at balllparks increased in the 21st century, so did sign stealing — and worries about how teams were trying to swipe signals. The Houston Astros were penalized for using a camera and banging a trash can to alert their batters to pitch types during their run to the 2017 World Series title.

“It basically eliminates all need to create a sign system, for a catcher giving signs,” MLB chief operations and strategy officer Chris Marinak said Tuesday. “You literally just press a button and it delivers the pitch call to the pitcher. And what we’ve seen so far, it really improves pace of game.”

Some teams tried the system in spring training, with manager Tony La Russa of the Chicago White Sox and Aaron Boone of the New York Yankees among those saying they liked what they saw.

Yankees catcher Kyle Higashioka used it a couple times this spring training, including Tuesday with pitcher Michael King against Detroit in New York’s final exhibition game.

“There’s still some stuff we’ve got to work through, but I mean the fail safe is always just give signs. So, that’s always there when we need it. We’re just working out all the kinks right now. If we run into stumbling blocks in-game, we can always give signs. I’m not too worried about it being confusing,” he said.

“I like it. At first today I gave signs to King because I didn’t have a chance to talk to him about it, so I started getting all messed up with it. So I just decided to give signs, and that worked fine,” he said.

MLB is providing each team with three transmitters, 10 receivers and a charging case for the PitchCom Pitcher Catcher Communication Device. It is available in English and Spanish.

“A maximum of five receivers and one transmitter may be in any use at any given time,” MLB wrote in a five-page memorandum Tuesday to general managers, assistant GMs, managers and equipment managers, a copy of which was obtained by The Associated Press.

A catcher has nine choices on his wristband device: “four seam high inside, curve hi middle, slider hi outside, change mid inside, sinker middle, cutter mid out, splitter low inside, knuckle lo middle, two seam low outside.”

A thin band tucked inside a cap allows the audio to be heard at an adjustable level, envisioned to be used by pitchers, second baseman, shortstops and center fielders.

“When changing pitchers, the manager shall provide a receiver to the replacement pitcher,” the memo said.

Receivers and transmitters can be used only on the field and may not be operated during games in clubhouses, dugouts or bullpens.

“Signals communicated via PitchCom may only be given by the catcher in the game. Signals may not be sent from the dugout, bullpen, a different player in the field, or anywhere else,” the memo said. “Clubs are responsible for their PitchCom devices. Any club that loses a transmitter or receiver will be charged a replacement fee of $5,000 per unit.”

Marinak said about half of the 30 MLB clubs had expressed interest.

“I’m not sure that every team will use it,” Marinak said during MLB’s third annual innovation and fan engagement showcase. “I think this is a kind of a personal preference kind of thing.”

Union head Tony Clark pointed out the devices are not mandatory.

“It was important to ensure the flexibility for players to use — or not use — the technology at their own discretion,” the former All-Star first baseman said in a statement. “The guys on the field are in the best position to make decisions as individuals about whether it’s right for them.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/4/1649246623077.jpeg" alt="AP Photo" />
 <figcaption>AP Photo</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — In a move that ends a tradition dating more than 150 years, Major League Baseball approved the use of an electronic device for catchers to signal pitches in an effort to eliminate sign stealing and speed games.Since the beginning of baseball in the 19th century, catchers had used their fingers to signal the type of pitch and its intended location.As video at balllparks increased in the 21st century, so did sign stealing — and worries about how teams were trying to swipe signals. The Houston Astros were penalized for using a camera and banging a trash can to alert their batters to pitch types during their run to the 2017 World Series title.“It basically eliminates all need to create a sign system, for a catcher giving signs,” MLB chief operations and strategy officer Chris Marinak said Tuesday. “You literally just press a button and it delivers the pitch call to the pitcher. And what we’ve seen so far, it really improves pace of game.”Some teams tried the system in spring training, with manager Tony La Russa of the Chicago White Sox and Aaron Boone of the New York Yankees among those saying they liked what they saw.Yankees catcher Kyle Higashioka used it a couple times this spring training, including Tuesday with pitcher Michael King against Detroit in New York’s final exhibition game.“There’s still some stuff we’ve got to work through, but I mean the fail safe is always just give signs. So, that’s always there when we need it. We’re just working out all the kinks right now. If we run into stumbling blocks in-game, we can always give signs. I’m not too worried about it being confusing,” he said.“I like it. At first today I gave signs to King because I didn’t have a chance to talk to him about it, so I started getting all messed up with it. So I just decided to give signs, and that worked fine,” he said.MLB is providing each team with three transmitters, 10 receivers and a charging case for the PitchCom Pitcher Catcher Communication Device. It is available in English and Spanish.“A maximum of five receivers and one transmitter may be in any use at any given time,” MLB wrote in a five-page memorandum Tuesday to general managers, assistant GMs, managers and equipment managers, a copy of which was obtained by The Associated Press.A catcher has nine choices on his wristband device: “four seam high inside, curve hi middle, slider hi outside, change mid inside, sinker middle, cutter mid out, splitter low inside, knuckle lo middle, two seam low outside.”A thin band tucked inside a cap allows the audio to be heard at an adjustable level, envisioned to be used by pitchers, second baseman, shortstops and center fielders.“When changing pitchers, the manager shall provide a receiver to the replacement pitcher,” the memo said.Receivers and transmitters can be used only on the field and may not be operated during games in clubhouses, dugouts or bullpens.“Signals communicated via PitchCom may only be given by the catcher in the game. Signals may not be sent from the dugout, bullpen, a different player in the field, or anywhere else,” the memo said. “Clubs are responsible for their PitchCom devices. Any club that loses a transmitter or receiver will be charged a replacement fee of $5,000 per unit.”Marinak said about half of the 30 MLB clubs had expressed interest.“I’m not sure that every team will use it,” Marinak said during MLB’s third annual innovation and fan engagement showcase. “I think this is a kind of a personal preference kind of thing.”Union head Tony Clark pointed out the devices are not mandatory.“It was important to ensure the flexibility for players to use — or not use — the technology at their own discretion,” the former All-Star first baseman said in a statement. “The guys on the field are in the best position to make decisions as individuals about whether it’s right for them.”Players may not longer watch in-game video replays on clubhouse televisions but may review video only on iPads controlled by the MLB office. The video will be updated only at the end of each half-inning and players can go back and replay, but may not see content during a half-inning in progress.“Players don’t have access to any technology that’s above and beyond what we’re offering in terms of in-game video,” Marinak said. “We also monitor all the transmission of traffic so that we understand what content is being delivered to the iPad.”The new system of umpires having microphones to explain video reviews to fans began with an exhibition game at Dodger Stadium on Monday night. MLB also is now taking in video from 104 of 120 minor league ballparksThe automated ball/strike system of computer plate umpires will be used at 10 Triple-A West parks, Charlotte in Triple-A East and Low-A Southeast. MLB intends to illustrate the calls on stadium scoreboards.Pitch clocks will be used at all minor league stadiums, likely a prelude to their installation at big league ballparks for 2023.MLB showed off its new 1,400-square foot replay operations center in midtown Manhattan, which opened just as COVID-19 struck in 2020 and replaced a 900-square foot facility in SoHo that had been used since 2014.There are 90 46-inch professional monitors and 60 24-inch touchscreen monitors in the 31 x 29-foot room, with three desks with six screens behind them for supervisors and administrators, then two more rows with technicians.MLB takes in 18 cameras from each ballpark showing 60 frames per second plus up to four high-speed cameras as fast as 360-480 frames per second, according to Chris Zagorski, vice president of replay operations and technology.There is a backup replay center in San Francisco, in case of a power outage in New York. For special event games such as in Dyersville, Iowa, Williamsport, Pennsylvania, and London, a replay room is set up on site.Marinak said that fans using the MLB Ballpark app to enter stadiums with electronic tickets rose from 3% in 2017 to 19% in 2019 to 56% in 2021.MLB also said the earliest helmet advertisements would begin appearing would be during the 2022 postseason. Players agreed last month to uniform and helmet ads, and the jersey ads will not start until 2023 at the earliest.